Comm No 0024.079 - Testimony - CA-9 - staff for PONC fund and Maintenance fund

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From: Maya Parish <mayaparish@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, January 25, 2019 1:24 PM To: Charter Commission Subject: Open Space Land Fund Testimony Aloha, Thank you in advance for your consideration. I'm writing to urge members of the County Charter Commission to please support Charter Amendment 9 and oppose Charter Amendments 9 and 13. The voters of Hawaii have spoken on the 2% Land Fund 3 times with resounding support for Public Open Space purchase, preservation and maintenance in perpetuity. It is quite clear that the public wishes to keep the funds AS IS that we've set aside to protect our treasured lands designated by community input, and definitely do not want various administrations to have the option to sell off these parcels at a later date. Designation of areas under Conservation Zoning is not sufficient to adequately carry out the clear will of the voters and residents of Hawai'i Island. Conservation zoning has not protected many of our important lands from development or prevented corporations from restricting public access, as seen in various examples from Waikoloa, Kohanaiki, Mauna Lani, O'oma and Kukio. We have seen so many successes, ample community involvement and stewardship with the 2% Land fund, allowing for bottom up community organizing and empowerment that restores trust in our government and pride in our community. The residents of Hawai'i Island love the 2% Land Fund, and only want to see it strengthened. With amendment CA -9 we can help shift the burden of administration to a dedicated staff member, which saves the Dept. of Finance money, while at the same time providing help needed for the community process to be streamlined and prevent the current delays. Thank you for respecting the will of the people and supporting the 2% Land Fund. We appreciate your public service. Mahalo nui loa, Maya Parish Hawi Resident 1 Comm. No. 24.79